Joint release with Professor Dorothy Keefe CEO – Cancer Australia

A new round of funding to support Australians living with cancer has opened today, with the Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health Malarndirri McCarthy announcing the latest Supporting People with Cancer (SPWC) Grant initiative.

The Australian Government, through Cancer Australia, is inviting grassroots community organisations and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations working to improve outcomes for people affected by cancer to apply for grants of up to $120,000 each.

The SPWC Grant initiative, an annual program, aims to enhance support for individuals affected by cancer by promoting equity in cancer outcomes and experiences. This includes a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other priority population groups identified in the Australian Cancer Plan (ACP).

Since 2005, the Australian Government has contributed over $11.5 million to 137 community grants nationwide through the SPWC Grant initiative. 

Successful projects from the 2023 round tailored support for diverse population groups, such as Indigenous communities, regional and rural communities, children affected by cancer, LGBTQ+ people, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

The deadline for submissions is 29 February 2024. 

Full details of the funding are available at the Australian Government’s grant website GrantConnect. 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health Senator Malarndirri McCarthy

“We know these grassroots projects provide much needed help to our local communities all around Australia to support people living with cancer.”

"The 2024 Supporting People with Cancer Grant initiative is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities in dealing with cancer.”

“Our Government is taking a targeted approach to improve outcomes for our communities. This initiative aligns with our commitment to Indigenous health and complements the broader goals set out in the Australian Cancer Plan.”

“Through partnerships with Indigenous organisations, we aim to make meaningful strides in promoting health equity and support for those affected by cancer."

Quotes attributable to Professor Dorothy Keefe, CEO Cancer Australia 

“Across Australia we have seen these small grants to community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cancer organisations make a big impact over the past 18 years.”

"Local groups and grassroots initiatives know the needs firsthand. They're key in making the Australian Cancer Plan's vision a reality– better equity in cancer outcomes and experiences for everyone, no matter what their background is or where they live."